Share this video

Watch Next

Blyth Valley MP Ronnie Campbell is taking a break from day-to-day political duties so he can fight stomach cancer.

Mr Campbell, 73, was diagnosed at the start of August and starts a nine-week chemotherapy course at Wansbeck General Hospital on Thursday.

He will be staying in the North East throughout his treatment but has vowed to go to Westminster to represent his constituency if MPs are voting on a big issue.

The Labour member is in good spirits as he prepares to take on the tumour; he was due to go on holiday the day after he was diagnosed and had to cancel, but he has not let that get the better of him.

“Don’t worry, I was insured. I got my money back,” said Mr Campbell.

Doctors at Newcastle’s RVI hospital carried out a string of tests on the MP and plan on operating after his chemotherapy finishes.

Blyth MP Ronnie Campbell who is to start chemotherapy

He said: “It’s grade one stomach cancer. That means it’s a tumour, and it’s got to come out.”

The good news is, it does not look like the cancer has spread.

The Tynemouth-born former coal miner says his doctor has assured him that he will still be able to enjoy a couple of pints and a curry when his treatment finishes, and he is positive about what is ahead of him.

“I’ve been told I’ll never be fat again, I’m going to be thin for the rest of my life,” said Mr Campbell, whose doctor says the MP can expect his waist to drop from 40 inches to 34 or 32.”

Although he is taking a step-back for a few months, Mr Campbell’s constituency office will still be open and running as normal.

He said: “I’ll still be knocking around Blyth, I’m just not going to the Palace [of Westminster] unless there’s a crucial vote.”

Mr Campbell is thankful to have the NHS and cancer battling expertise on his doorstep.

He said: “The treatment I’ve had has been absolutely first class, and by God, I’ve had some - X-rays, CT scan, cameras down my stomach, cameras through my stomach.

Blyth MP Ronnie Campbell who is to start chemotherapy

“It’s been first class, all the way, thank God for the NHS.

“The staff have been brilliant, Professor Michael Griffin [RVI surgeon] has got people coming from all over the place to get treated in Newcastle.

“It’s got a hell of a reputation.”

Mr Campbell was at Croft Park on Tuesday to watch Blyth Spartans beat Marine in the Evo-Stik Premier League. He plans on attending Blyth’s FA Cup clash with Morpeth on Saturday, as well as many more matches.

He added: “It’s amazing how many people go through this operation and they are all fine.”